May is Osteoporosis Month!
Your bone health is Important! Osteoporosis is a disease marked by a loss of bone mass and a breakdown of the bone tissue’s structure. The result? An increased risk of bone fractures – especially in the spine, hip and wrist. Osteoporosis is a silent disease. You may not know you have it until a minor bump or fall breaks a bone. Osteoporosis affects both women and men. Over 53 million Americans either have osteoporosis or are at high risk of developing it.
Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis are:
- Your sex: women are at greater risk than men
- Age: risk increases with age
- Body Size: small, thin-boned women are at greater risk
- Calcium and Vitamin D Intake: too low over a lifetime puts you at greater risk
- Cigarette Smoking: it is bad for bones and a whole lot more
- Lifestyle: being inactive weakens your bones
What can you do to keep your bones strong? While there isn’t a cure, here are a few of the things you can do:
- Get screened with a bone mineral density test
- If your doctor approves, do regular weight bearing exercise
- Pursue a healthy lifestyle including not smoking or consuming excess alcohol
- Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
Have questions? Check in with your on-site Infinity Rehab staff for guidance.
For more information, contact:
Kris McVay, PT
503-902-0592